Chaos, panic, and bloodshed engulfed the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Thursday night, as unidentified gunmen launched a violent attack that left two students dead, two abducted, and several others critically injured.
According to eyewitness accounts and sources within the institution, the incident occurred around 8:40 p.m. near the busy Total and Tipper Junctions, areas frequented by students and residents.
The assailants reportedly arrived on a motorcycle and in a black Lexus 350 SUV with no license plates, before opening fire indiscriminately on students and passersby.
Though initial reports suggested that as many as seven students were shot, the Anambra State Police Command later confirmed that two fatalities had been recorded, with four others currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds. Reports also indicate that two individuals were abducted, though there are conflicting accounts on this aspect. While some eyewitnesses claim that two people were taken, a student’s Facebook post has challenged that narrative.
A disturbing video footage that surfaced online in the aftermath of the incident showed a male and female victim lying in pools of blood in what appeared to be a hospital emergency ward, struggling for life.
Preliminary investigations suggest the attack may be linked to cult-related violence, although this has not been officially confirmed.
The shocking nature of the assault has sent ripples of fear through the student community, sparking calls for increased security presence and swift justice.
In response, the Anambra State Police Command deployed a heavily armed joint security team led by the Area Commander of Aguata.
The operation includes personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups. The task force has since taken control of the affected areas and launched a manhunt for the attackers.
Speaking on Friday, June 20, Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the details of the attack and assured the public that investigations were ongoing.
“Two victims, including a female, are currently receiving medical attention in the hospital. Sadly, two lives were lost, and two others were allegedly abducted,”
“We are acting on credible intelligence and eyewitness accounts to track down the perpetrators.”he said.
The police also urged the public to remain calm and promised that updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.
The brutal attack has ignited outrage and fear among students and faculty. Many students were seen fleeing the area in panic, while others took to social media to express their distress. A representative of the student union, who spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons, described the incident as “barbaric and terrifying.”
“We are no longer safe. This goes beyond cult rivalry it’s a direct threat to our lives,” the student lamented.
As security forces continue their search for the assailants, tension remains high in Oko. Students and local residents are demanding swift justice, improved campus security, and proactive measures to prevent further bloodshed.
